Haaland did not speak like a player treating it as just another big win. "Foi um jogo especial para a Noruega, porque a última vez que jogamos uma Copa do Mundo também enfrentamos o Brasil. A Noruega é a única equipe que o Brasil nunca venceu. Então, foi especial," he said.
That matters because Norway are not usually cast as the heavyweights in these moments. For Haaland, this was about more than goals; it was about control, authority and beating one of football’s most decorated names without shrinking from the stage. He even kept the mood light afterward, adding: "É uma grande lembrança e, mais uma vez, desculpa. Desculpa pela derrota, mas isso é futebol."
Haaland also briefly turned his attention to Manchester City, where change appears to be part of the current story. "Só o tempo dirá. Temos muitos jogadores novos que conhecem o nível. Enzo Fernandez sabe o que é preciso para ganhar títulos, já jogava na Premier League e entrou direto no time," he said.
The broader point was clear: new arrivals may need help, but the expectation at City never softens. Haaland’s own experience seemed to shape that view. "Entrei no time, entreguei resultados, e é isso que se espera de jogadores de alto nível," he said.
Then came the lighter note. "É muito mais fácil. Era hora de mudar. Gosto, embora sinta falta do cabelo longo. Vai crescer de novo, espero," Haaland said of his new look.
That mix of edge and ease suits where he is right now: decisive on the pitch, relaxed off it, and central to every storyline around club and country. The next one to watch is simple enough - whether this international high rolls straight into City’s next run of fixtures.